After dinner, Ruby quietly made her way toward Julian's room, curious about what the two were up to. Karl trailed behind her lazily, half-hugging the hallway wall like it owed him support.
As Ruby gently pushed the door open, she expected to see them maybe napping—or sneaking snacks. But instead, her brows lifted in surprise.
Milo and Julian were both sitting cross-legged on the floor, papers spread around them. They were writing—neatly and carefully. Words she had taught them. Letters formed slowly, but clearly.
"Wife!" Milo beamed up at her, his eyes sparkling. He held up a few pages toward her with childlike excitement. "Look! I wrote all the words you taught me!"
Ruby's heart warmed at the sight, but her gaze briefly flicked to Julian—who had stiffened a little. His eyes widened for a moment, and he looked like he'd been caught doing something embarrassing.
